Question 1

What is the "Jet Ski "Damage" Charge" scam in Ocho Rios?

Accepted Answer

Jet ski rental operators charge tourists for "scratches" or "missing parts" they identify on return that were already there before rental. Damage fees often 200-500 USD, charged to a held credit card. Photograph and video the jet ski thoroughly from all angles BEFORE getting on. Refuse to leave a credit card imprint; pay cash deposit only. Use rentals at major resorts that have written policies.

Question 2

What is the "Island Village Shopping Counterfeit Goods" scam in Ocho Rios?

Accepted Answer

Inside and around Island Village shopping complex, vendors sell items branded as authentic Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee, apparel, and rum at prices that suggest legitimacy. Much of this merchandise is counterfeit or significantly diluted. Some Blue Mountain coffee products carry unofficial certifications that look genuine but are not issued by the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority. Look for the JACRA certification seal on coffee products and buy rum only from sealed, labeled bottles from licensed retailers. Research authentic Blue Mountain coffee brand names before visiting. When in doubt, purchase from the larger duty-free shops inside the complex which are accountable to licensing authorities.

Other Tourist Scams in Ocho Rios

Jet Ski "Damage" Charge

Island Village Shopping Counterfeit Goods

Experienced a scam here?